Security is a paramount concern for most of us. It’s important to feel safe in the space where you live and sleep. In the pursuit of enhancing safety measures, some may consider unconventional methods. One such method that occasionally surfaces is the idea of wrapping doorknobs or other entry points in foil as a means of improving security.
This idea has circulated across the internet due to click-bait ads and foreign-written online articles. However, despite the viral trend in some circles, this practice is not effective at all. There is no security benefit to wrapping your door knob in foil. In this post, we’ll delve into why wrapping your door knobs in aluminum foil doesn’t improve security.
Why A Foil Wrapping Doesn’t Improve Security
While it’s true that aluminum foil can act as a barrier against certain forms of electromagnetic radiation, it is not an effective deterrent against physical threats. Foil provides a false sense of security, but it is not designed to withstand force or prevent unauthorized access.
The claim with foil as a security measure is that it makes a crinkle sound when handled, which could alert you to movement with your door. The problem with this theory is that it’s actually very easy to remove foil quietly. Furthermore, if you’re placing foil on an exterior door, you’re unlikely to hear any crinkling noise even if someone removed the foil without any attempt to be quiet.
The virality of this myth also poses risks to your safety. Individuals with malicious intent who are aware of the myth may take the foil on your door to be a sign that you are alone and vulnerable. This could make you stand out as more of a target, which is the opposite of what you want when you’re alone.
When you look at the origin of the myth, it all stems from an ad that insinuated that foil improved safety when you’re alone. However, if you clicked on the ad and read the content of the page, you’d find that there was no mention of safety and the only real mention of foil was in reference to painting a door. So, the ad was using a false article title to drive more clicks to the page and it has since spurred a slew of incorrect information online.
How Wrapping Knobs In Foil Can Be Beneficial
Despite the limitations of foil as a security measure, there is a situation where wrapping knobs in foil can be beneficial. When you’re painting doors, part of the prep work includes removing or taping handles to avoid accidentally getting paint on the handle.
Foil can be used as an alternative to masking tape to cover your knobs or handles and keep them free from paint. It can be easier to cover a round extruded surface like a door knob with foil as opposed to tape. There isn’t really a cost benefit to purchasing foil over masking tape, but if you do a lot of baking and you don’t do a lot of painting, it could make more sense to buy foil for your door painting project as opposed to tape.
Better Ways To Improve Saftey When You’re Alone
Rather than relying on unconventional methods like foil wrapping, there are more effective ways to enhance safety when you find yourself alone. Implementing practical and proven strategies can significantly reduce risks and contribute to a secure living environment.
Personal Safety Apps
Consider leveraging personal safety apps like Life360 and Famisafe. These apps provide features such as real-time location sharing, emergency contacts, and quick access to emergency services. These apps can be invaluable tools for enhancing personal safety, especially when you’re alone.
Home Security System
For a comprehensive approach to home security, investing in a dedicated home security system is a wise choice. Modern systems come equipped with a range of features designed to protect your home and provide peace of mind.
Smart Doorbells
Smart doorbells like Ring, Blink, or Wyze offer real-time video monitoring and two-way communication. They allow you to see and communicate with visitors remotely, enhancing security by providing visibility at your doorstep.
Wireless Motion Detectors
Wireless motion detectors are a great option if you’re staying somewhere that isn’t your own home. These battery-powered mobile devices can travel with you and be placed anywhere. They’re easy to install and set up. Many models come with the ability to adjust detection sensitivity for more accurate motion monitoring.
Wireless Security Cameras
Strategically placed wireless security cameras provide visual surveillance, acting as a deterrent to potential intruders. Many systems offer cloud storage and remote monitoring, giving you access to footage anytime, anywhere.
Need Help Improving Your Home Security?
If security is important to you, it’s in your best interest to work with a knowledgeable professional who can make sure your home’s vulnerabilities are significantly reduced (obviously no home is break-in-proof). Home Directory helps to connect you with reputable home service companies like home security installation companies. You can browse our directory to find professionals that can serve you.
